BY PHESHEYA IAN KUNENE
MBABANE – The rhythm of innovation and the beat of protection came together today as Eswatini joined the global community in commemorating World Intellectual Property (IP) Day under the theme “Feel the Beat of Music”.
The event, which ran from Wednesday morning until late in the afternoon, was held at the Hilton Gardens Inn in Mbabane.
Artists, music producers, poets, government officials and copyright advocates gathered for a high-energy workshop filled with live art, performances and conversations centred on protecting creative work through intellectual property rights.
The programme was steered by Mzwakhe “Tjovitjo” Khumalo, whose infectious humour and colourful storytelling had guests in stitches throughout the day. His effortless charm kept the event lively, earning him praise for striking the perfect balance between entertainment and structure.
Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the vital role of intellectual property in sustaining creative industries.
He said this year’s theme shone a light on the intersection of creativity and commerce—“where the soul of music meets the structure of the law, and where the unique spark of artistry is given the protection and recognition it rightfully deserves.”
“The power of music cannot be overstated,” the Minister said. “Music transcends language. It unites communities, shapes identities, and tells the stories of nations. Behind every beat, every lyric, every production, every performance, there is a creative mind who deserves not only applause, but ownership. IP is the legal heartbeat that protects that creativity.”
He added that government remained committed to simplifying IP registration, strengthening enforcement, and raising awareness across all levels.
“We are working to build an ecosystem where creativity is not exploited but nurtured—where every artist knows that their sound, their voice, and their vision are protected by the IP laws we have,” he said.
Dr Celucolo Dludlu, Registrar of Intellectual Property, encouraged stakeholders to see IP as the “heartbeat of creativity, innovation and artistry.”
He told participants that IP rights were essential for ensuring artists’ contributions were recognised and rewarded. “Let’s celebrate the pulse and rhythm of innovation, the melody of imagination, and the power of collaboration,” Dludlu said.
The programme featured show-stopping performances and thought-provoking presentations that put local talent and knowledge on full display.
Afro soul legend Bholoja urged artists to take themselves seriously and treat music as a profession to sustain their livelihoods. He backed up his message with a powerful performance that captivated the room.
Indigenous music producer Lusolotja Ginindza gave a passionate presentation on the origins of Eswatini’s traditional music, blending storytelling and humour in a way that kept the audience fully engaged.
Poet Selu, affectionately known as Lulaka Lwelibhubesi, moved attendees with his poem Ngicela Kubuta. His own story—from working as a groundsman under legendary DJ DD Cool to becoming a respected poet—was a testimony to the importance of platforms that nurture hidden talent.
Speed painter Honest Mhlanga wowed guests with a live portrait of Minister Khumalo, painted on-site and gifted to him during the programme. He later explained the concept behind the piece, which symbolised the role of leadership in protecting creativity.
Music analyst Mmeli Hlanze closed off with a detailed presentation titled The Evolution of the Commercialization of Music, tracing the history of music distribution from printed sheet music in 1473 to digital platforms and the challenges of piracy in the 2000s. He unpacked how evolving copyright laws and branding tools like trademarks continue to shape the industry.
The event, driven by the Eswatini Intellectual Property Office, made it clear that creativity in Eswatini is not only alive—it is protected, celebrated, and ready to thrive.
